Eloise Amado Duran-Gaitan

Eloise Amado Duran-Gaitan passed peacefully after a short illness on March 22, 2024, in Visalia, California at the age of 90. 

Eloise was a deeply loved mother, grandmother, sister and friend and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.  

Eloise is survived by her sister Mamie Santillan of El Monte, Joe Duran of West Covina, and Elenor Brindel of Arcadia, California. She is also survived by her daughter, Angela Leyva of Porterville, 

her son Richard Gaitan of Hanford, along with numerous grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  

Eloise is preceded in death by the love of her life and husband Ruben Gaitan Sr, son Ruben Gaitan Jr, daughter Mona Medina, son Adrian Gaitan, her parents Trinidad and Leonor Duran, and siblings: John Duran, Isabel Gallegos, Trinidad Jr Duran, Jess Duran, and Ray Duran.

Eloise was born on January 24, 1934, in Thermal, CA to Trinidad Duran and Leonor Amado. She married Ruben Gaitan in October of 1952. After moving to Hanford, California, Eloise and Ruben began establishing a home that would bring joy to the 5 children the couple would welcome into their lives, as well as generations to come.  

Eloise would share her extraordinary culinary skills with the community while working at local restaurants. She also would display her love and patience as she cared for children in addition to her own. When her husband passed suddenly in November 1965, Eloise led the family while showing strength and bravery as a loving mother who encouraged all of her children to pursue their dreams.

Eloise was a passionate gardener, and her love of nature was evident with the beautiful colors of the flowers around her home.  She could often be found sitting outside praying with her beloved cat Vicious. Eloise was a divine loving woman and lived her life as a true testament of God’s will.

Visitation will be on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 3pm to 7pm at Whitehurst McNamara Funeral Home in Hanford, with Rosary at 6pm.  Graveside burial will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Calvary Cemetery, 11680 S. 10th St, Hanford at 9:30am.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate Eloise's life.  Condolences and remembrances can be posted on www.whitehurstmcnamarafuneralservice.com.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Eloise Amado Duran-Gaitan, please visit our floral store.